4 Takeaways from Transform 2024 as a Woman Tech Founder
Ahva Sadeghi
Co-Founder & CEO, Symba | Forbes 30 Under 30 | Forbes HR Council l Inc. Top 250 Female Founders | John Lewis Fellow
After several weeks since the Transform conference, I'm still buzzing ?? with the energy, ideas, and possibilities shared among some of the most forward-thinking minds in the technology and HR space. This event, renowned for its blend of visionary programming and dynamic networking, truly delivered.
Here are my top 4 takeaways, complete with key questions to spark your imagination:
1. Community can be a powerful source for inspiration and growth ??
Ask yourself: How are you building community? Inside your organization? In your broader community? How does your community foster idea sharing and learning?
As people leaders, we're all about the people. This belief is precisely why many of us embarked on our careers in this space. After engaging in in-person coffee chats and lunches with customers and innovators, I was vividly reminded of the unparalleled value of face-to-face interactions. My energy tank filled rapidly! It was mesmerizing to be in a space that melded people leaders, innovators, investors, and experts in just the right proportions, creating a ripe environment for the exchange of ideas, juicy insights, and the forging of new partnerships. This melting pot was a true haven for TRANSFORMative ideas.
Highlights include meeting friends and leaders like Matt Charney at Recruiter.com , Donald Knight Chief People Officer at Greenhouse Software , members from the Forbes Human Resources Council like Halai Shukran , ??Ginny C.?? at ōURA , Brian Fink at McAfee , Wahab Owolabi at Duolingo and many more!
Oh, how could I forget Flo-rida??? ??
Omar Khateeb from JobPixel , who brought us all together for an incredible dinner on the first night. These are the moments that count, making Transform an unforgettable experience.
Of course, there were tons of key learnings to share (I promise I attended at least a couple of panel sessions!! ??).
A massive shout out goes to Samara Jaffe, the founder of Transform , and her team for making this all happen! ??????
2. The AI and User Experience Revolution is Happening Now ??????
Ask yourself: What does AI mean to you? Could you explain AI to a kindergarten student? How are you embarking on your AI journey?
And, what about user experience? Can you sketch out your employee experience? What's working well, what's not, and importantly, why?
No surprise here—AI was a hot topic, with user experience equally in the spotlight!
A standout session for me was, “Future of the HR Tech Stack: Platform vs Point Solutions,” featuring a constellation of thought leaders.
The conversation delved deep into the essence of HR tech innovation: crafting products that truly resonate with users, harnessing data to predict the future, and navigating product roadmaps with clarity. These gems of wisdom are the North Star for anyone venturing into the tech frontier. Here are my key nuggets:
领英推荐
?? Build products with the customer in mind, not your brand.
?? Use data not just to report the past but to predict the future.
??? Prioritize clarity over certainty in your roadmap.
3. Employee Benefits Are Evolving—Are You Keeping Up? ??
Ask yourself: What benefits are you offering? How do people discover and use them? Is it time for a refresh?
Did you know that “Over 30% of 18–41-year-olds are most concerned with having pet insurance available as a benefit.” - Forbes. Read more here: https://www.forbes.com/advisor/business/best-employee-benefits/
The landscape of employee benefits is undergoing a metamorphosis. From maternal healthcare to pet insurance, the array of benefits on display at Transform 2024 was a testament to the HR community's adaptability and commitment to holistic employee well-being. This trend is a wake-up call for organizations to stay ahead of the curve in recognizing and addressing the diverse needs of their teams.
4. It's Time to Invest in Tomorrow's Talent Before It's Too Late ?
Did you realize that 85% of the jobs that will exist in 2030 haven’t even been invented yet? And 65% of today’s students will work in roles that don’t currently exist? - World Economic Forum
Ask yourself: How are you planning for the future? 5 years? 1 year? 1 quarter?
What skills will you need in the future? How are you building that pipeline today?
"The future depends on what you do today" - Mahatma Gandhi
The future is now, and it's our young professionals who hold the keys. The panel “Investing in the Next Generation of the Workforce” was a clarion call to action.
The panel included:
They shared their insights on nurturing a supportive ecosystem for the emerging workforce. Emphasizing mentorship, inclusivity, and skill development, this discussion was a rallying cry for all of us to pave the way for the next generation's success.
Jean Eddy says we need to start earlier… even middle school. This gives our youth the opportunity to actually try things out and be equipped with information to make the right career choices.
On the employer side, I sincerely appreciate Jolen’s prescriptive on “build vs. buy.” She says to meet the needs of your business and build your own career pipeline of your own individuals who will be career ready. Then, map out what they will do at your company and in the future. This is the type of holistic and strategic vision that we need.
A great call to action from Blair Bennett, SVP, Global Talent Acquisition, PepsiCo, is to engage the next generation differently. We have a ton of problems. Get them involved!
As I reflect on these insights and unforgettable moments, I'm filled with positive energy and anticipation for what's ahead. Transform 2024 has not only highlighted the pressing trends and challenges in the HR and technology spheres but also illuminated the path forward. This conference reaffirmed my belief in the power of community, innovation, and a people-centric approach as we navigate the evolving terrain of the workplace. Looking ahead to Transform 2025, I'm eager to continue this journey of discovery and transformation.
If you want access to more of my notes, just message me, and I’d be happy to share. I can also invite a handful of folks to Transform Plus! ??
Chief Operating Officer at Pluribus Digital | Background as a People Executive driving business results through talent management strategy | Forbes HR Council
11 个月Ahva, what a great recap from such an inspiring founder! It was so great to fellowship with you and elevate our connection beyond the Forbes HR Council!
Founder at JobPixel - Authentic Video For Every Brand!
11 个月Amazing post, Ahva. Thanks for the mention!!! ??
CPO, Founding Member @Typeface, Enterprise Generative AI | ex-GM @Microsoft
11 个月Thank you for the shout out to the panel Ahva! Thanks for spending your time with all of us.
Remote Work Champion, Lover of HRtech, SAFE SPACE and EXECORE Member, ex-CHIEF
11 个月It was great to see you and so excited for the future of Symba.
Venture Partner / Group SVP People & Culture
11 个月Ahva you have a bright future as an author. Phenomenal read my friend!